DEC
15--Jeffrey D. Sweetin, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement
Administration (DEA) Denver Division along with Lieutenant Robert Smith,
Commander of the West Metro Drug Task Force and Dave Thomas, Colorado
1st Judicial District Attorney, and representatives from the Bureau of
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (BICE) announced that multiple suspects
have been arrested and charged for their involvement in the distribution
of methamphetamine and cocaine in the Denver metro area.

An 18-month
investigation has resulted in these arrests with various offenses related
to conspiring to distribute, distribution and possession with the intent
to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. All defendants are being charged
locally by the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office.

"The DEA Mobile
Enforcement Team (MET) and the West Metro Drug Task Force literally dismantled
this criminal drug organization from the top down," said Special
Agent in Charge Sweetin. "Investigations like this one disrupt the
availability and flow of a form of ongoing violence associated with addiction
and the illegal drug trade here in Jefferson County."

A photo of "ice,"
a very pure form of methamphetamine

Over 35 officers
and federal agents from numerous agencies participated in this past weeks'
enforcement action during which six search warrants were served at locations
in the area. The searches produced approximately 4,600 grams (9 pounds)
of methamphetamine," 450 grams (1 pound) of cocaine, 90 grams (3
ounces) of heroin and 2268 grams (5 pounds) of marijuana. Approximately
$48,000 in US Currency was seized in the case along with two vehicles.
Preliminary tests of the methamphetamine indicate a 90% or greater purity
level, which is commonly referred to as "ice".

The DEA Mobile Enforcement
Team has been deployed with the West Metro Drug Task Force since September
2003 and provided an added boost of manpower and expertise for the area
to enhance drug enforcement operations. The West Metro Drug Task Force
is comprised of officers from Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, Arvada, Westminster
and Golden Police Departments and deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff's
Department.

Denver SAC Jeffrey D. Sweetin
at the Press Conference for "Operation Speedtrap" answering
questions. Behind him is Jefferson County District Attorney Dave
Thomas

"I'd like to
thank the dedicated men and woman of the West Metro Drug Task Force for
their tenacious pursuit of this drug organization since May 2002. Successful
investigations always come down to personal qualities like ingenuity,
hard work, and perseverance," said Commander Smith. "In the
end, Jefferson County will be a safer place due to the efforts behind
"Operation Speed Trap."